"Psita Kolokithakia" - Stuffed Zucchini
Stuffed zucchini filled with seasoned ground beef and herbs, baked to tender perfection with a zesty lemon flavor, ideal for family dinners and Mediterranean cuisine lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute ground beef until lightly browned.
- Add chopped onion, olive oil, tomato sauce, mint, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Stuff the zucchini with the meat mixture.
- Place stuffed zucchini in a baking dish, add 1 cup water, and sprinkle with lemon juice.
- Bake in preheated oven at 375°F for 1 to 1.5 hours until zucchini is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter filling, consider substituting ground turkey for the beef. Fresh mint can be used for a brighter flavor, but dried mint works well too. To enhance the dish, add a pinch of cinnamon to the meat mixture. If you prefer a tomato-based sauce, using crushed tomatoes instead of sauce will add a chunkier texture and deeper taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed zucchini with a side of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a refreshing contrast. A light salad or roasted vegetables would complement the flavors nicely. This dish pairs beautifully with Greek Sarmas(Stuffed Grape Leaves) for a complete Mediterranean meal, offering a delightful variety of textures and tastes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the zucchini's moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Psita Kolokithakia" - Stuffed Zucchini contains roughly 134 calories, with 6g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1198mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, for a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a mixture of sautéed vegetables and grains like quinoa. Adding spices such as cumin and paprika can enhance the flavor, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
How do I know when the zucchini is done?
The zucchini is done when it is tender and easily pierced with a fork. Baking for 1 to 1.5 hours at 375°F usually achieves this, but ovens may vary, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time.
Can I freeze stuffed zucchini?
Yes, stuffed zucchini can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. For best results, consume within 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).